How Common Is Nursing Home Abuse?

How Common Is Nursing Home Abuse?

It is the duty and responsibility of nursing homes everywhere to provide safe and compassionate environments. When our loved ones enter a nursing home, we expect them to be comfortable and safe. Sadly, this is not always the case.

Senior husband visiting his disabled wife on the grounds of the nursing home while a nurse pushes her wheelchair.

If you suspect a nursing home or its staff are neglecting or abusing patients, then it is important to act quickly. There are many types of nursing home abuse, and in some cases, letting the issue go unaddressed could lead to injuries or even death.

If you believe that your loved one was the victim of nursing home abuse, contact Kent Hazzard, LLP. Mr. Hazzard can evaluate your case to determine if you have valid grounds for a lawsuit. To schedule a consultation, call our office today at 914-948-4700.

Nursing Home Abuse Happens More Often Than Most People Think

Though you or a loved one may have enjoyed a positive nursing home experience, reports of abuse are more common than most people assume. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, hundreds of thousands of families are victims of nursing home abuse each year.

Is There a Difference between Negligence and Abuse?

Abuse, by its basic medical definition, refers to any intent to harm. In nursing homes, this may include physical abuse, mental abuse, denial of food, water or medicine, depravation and confinement.

If you notice any signs of these behaviors, you should contact law enforcement immediately. There is no justification for the immoral treatment of elderly citizens, and fortunately, there is a legal framework in place to help you respond.

Neglect differs from abuse in several ways. Although both can lead to the injury or death of a patient, there are different response protocols for neglect and abuse.

Neglect generally does not involve the intent to harm a patient. Cases of nursing home negligence are on the rise because these facilities are often understaffed. As a result, patients cannot receive sufficient care. An attorney can explain your legal options if you notice signs of neglect.

Who Is Responsible for Neglect or Abuse?

It is the responsibility of a nursing home to meet the needs of its residents. Failing to do so, or failing to stop abuse at the hands of employees, makes the facility liable for injuries to patients.

It is important to note that filing a report with either law enforcement or Adult Protective Services does not require you to prove that abuse or neglect is occurring. These agencies can conduct an investigation based on your suspicion.

Your loved ones deserve a caring home to live out the rest of their lives. You should never tolerate any abuse or negligence.

If you are concerned about the safety of your loved one, call Kent Hazzard, LLP. Mr. Hazzard can explain your options and help you determine if filing a lawsuit would be in your best interests. To schedule an appointment, call our office today at 914-948-4700.

At Kent Hazzard, we are committed to integrity, excellence and personalized service while providing the highest quality comprehensive legal services. We take the time to develop and foster helping, caring relationships that benefit our clients. We set ourselves apart by taking only a limited number of cases so that our clients receive the personal and proper attention they deserve.

Nothing on this web site or its associated pages, comments, links, e-mail responses, articles or other communications and information
are intended to be taken as legal advice for your individual situation. This web site is an advertisement for legal services only.